Health advocate and cardiologist Dr. Willie Ong has announced his intent to run for a Senate seat in the 2025 elections, despite currently undergoing treatment for cancer. During a Facebook Live session on Monday, Ong revealed that his wife, Dr. Anna Liza Ramoso, will be filing his Certificate of Candidacy (COC) on October 2, 2024, as he continues his health battle.
Ong, who will run as an independent candidate, clarified that he is not aligned with any political party, including both the administration and the opposition. He emphasized that his campaign will be driven by personal values and integrity, free from political debts or external pressures. “It’s just me. If people help me, I appreciate it, but I owe nothing to anyone,” Ong remarked.
His decision to re-enter politics comes at a significant moment in his life, as he is undergoing treatment for a 16-centimeter sarcoma in his abdomen. Ong shared details about the rare cancer, which is lodged near his heart and spine, adding that it is being treated as part of an ongoing medical plan. Despite this, he remains optimistic about his political future.
Known for his massive social media following—17 million on Facebook and 9.7 million on YouTube—Ong has built a strong reputation by providing health and wellness advice to the public. His candidacy will likely focus on healthcare reform and accessibility, areas where he has long advocated for improvements.
Dr. Ong previously ran for Senate in 2019 but was unsuccessful. He also served as the running mate of Isko Moreno in the 2022 presidential election. A graduate of the De La Salle University College of Medicine and holder of a Master’s in Public Health from UP Manila, Ong also served as a consultant for the Department of Health from 2010 to 2014.
With a focus on public health and an independent platform, Ong’s return to the political scene adds a unique dimension to the upcoming 2025 midterm elections.
Ong’s candidacy signals an important movement towards prioritizing healthcare reforms in governance. His story emphasizes resilience and an unwavering focus on public well-being, aiming to leverage his influence to bring about systemic change.
